Friday Quick Hits and Varia

It’s starting to feel like spring here in North Dakotaland with temperatures soaring into the mid 50s this weekend and no snow or “significant winter weather events” in the foreseeable future. I’m not saying that we won’t get more snow or some kind of dizzying drop in temperature, but there’s reason for hope.

The nice weather this weekend might make it a good time for my first outdoor run of the season (or maybe an outdoor ride), but even if that doesn’t work out, there’s plenty to happening to keep me distracted from my gainful employment. The Phils take on the Nationals for a series that should help their season get some positive momentum. The Sixers face the Grizzlies in their push for the 6th seed (and avoiding the play-in tournament). I’m not saying that they’ll be the 6th seed, but I’m saying that it’s not impossible at this point. More importantly, the F1 circus is in Japan at Suzuka, which is a favorite track of mine (even though it doesn’t always produce riveting racing). The NASCARlers are at Martinsville (drink every time someone says “beatin’ ’n’ bangin’). And, most importantly, Our Star Spangled Cricketers are beginning their T20I World Cup summer with a series against Canada. 

I also have a stack of grading to get on top of (perhaps for a nap?), some reading that requires my attention, and an exciting gaggle of new music that is begging for my ears. Of course, there is always the quest for more quick hits and varia:

• The Latest Kyle Cassidy joint: This is Only Earth, My Dear – Poems & Photos.

• Pasts Imperfect.

• Some good varia.

• Two Youtublers

The Color of Night in Byzantine Art.

Inhabiting Byzantine Athens.

• Flexible due dates lower student stress without loss of rigor.

• Got Flows?

• Endangered Greek dialect.

• On Mary Beard’s “Emperor of Rome”.

• What I’m reading: George E. Lewis, A Power Stronger Than Itself: The AACM and American Experimental Music (2009).